SKALGARD CENSUS
(Please post responses here or RP them to Valerian In Game)

*This document is written on parchment that is handed out by Valerian and printed on the notice board. Each question has space to answer, and there is a second page simply with lines for further responses*

Dear Residents
This census is entirely optional. It may be filled out as little or as much as desired. It exists to establish the desires, intents and opinions of those in Skal in order to better accommodate for such.

Name:
Age:
Race:
Profession:
Other pertinent details:

Why did you come to Skal?

Do you intend to remain here on a permanent or temporary basis?

What are your opinions on this town?

Can you name three people you trust in Skal?

What are your opinions on the relationship between adventurers, residents and the local authority?

What are your opinions on the present relationship between Skal and Arelith?

What is your opinion on gnolls and other such creatures residing in or trading with the town?

Why did you come to Skal?:
I was offered passage to 'Arelith' as a blend of order and gift, and Skal quite technically lies within the general direction from which I traveled.

Do you intend to remain here on a permanent or temporary basis?:
A temporary basis.

What are your opinions on this town?:
I believe that there is a great deal of opportunity, both beneath and above the snow. There are many natural resources in the region, and a great wealth of lessons to be learned from its various threats. It is not for the faint of heart or those unwilling to pull the most that they can from life, but for those sorts, Skaljard is a treasure. It is to my sorrow that there are many who see only its stagnation of ages past and are content to leave it to such a decline, but it is my hope that the attraction of so many industrious individuals as been achieved in the last few years sees it on the rise instead.

Can you name three people you trust in Skal?:
Petra Geard, Mach Fryar, Oakmaster Rhys

What are your opinions on the relationship between adventurers, residents and the local authority?:
There is a clear distinction between adventurers and residents plus their local authorities. This has caused friction in the past, and I worry that it shall continue to do so in the future. The successful defense of Skaljard from the white dragon Nyrlylurth shows what good can be achieved when such forces work in tandem, and I hope that may inspire further cooperation moving forward.

What are your opinions on the present relationship between Skal and Arelith?:
Skal may be in the region of Arelith, but it is its own place. Its geography, its culture and its needs are vastly different. No attempt should be made to turn one into the other, and respect should be maintained for local, rather than past customs, for any travelers from one to the other.

What is your opinion on gnolls and other such creatures residing in or trading with the town?:
Skaljard is a place where, unlike in the rest of the realms, differences must be tolerated for the sake of survival. Anywhere else, the Furies would be opposed to the faiths of many, and many to them. Their acceptance of other faiths, and the ability for other faiths to work alongside their followers, accustoms one to giving the typically unacceptable a chance. Therefore, I understand why there are those who would sooner see what a gnoll may have to offer, rather than simply putting them to the sword.

Putting them to the sword, however, is the custom not only in the greater realms, but set as standard by the hovding of Skaljard. While I would be open to the thought of a discussion on such, Skaljard is ruled by his declarations, not discussions, nor would I likely be the one to move for it. At present, monsters within the town are not only a risk, but are themselves at risk from more aggressive citizens, and I myself would only think to deal with one with utmost caution at best.

What are your opinions on the races already in town?:
I offer neither complaint nor particular favouritism towards any of the races within Skaljard. Every perspective has something to offer, every individual unique. Race, barring particular extraplanar or monstrous origins, influencing manner with one's own very being, is often simply a part of that equation.

What are your opinions on the local defences?:
There is a grand need for greater organization. The western exit to the quarry needs a wall and a gate, or the quarry's entrance needs to be reclaimed in full,so as to stem the tide of beasts and even undead brought in by adventurers.

The sole, clear law is that combat should not happen within Skaljard, and yet it often does. More militia members should be posted throughout town, especially along the main road.

Also, I do not know the state of their equipment, but they should be afforded all but the finest and most luxurious of protections, for Skal readily provides for such. I invite the hovding or any militia official to contact me if I may offer aid with such.

What changes would you make if you had the opportunity?:
After handling current matters, I would see to measured expansion. I would focus on fortifying the region of the quarry, to better ensure the security of Skaljard overall,. I would see to militia recruitment, and perhaps a means through which foreigners could seek citizenship and, through that, invested membership in the militia. I would also see to a greater number of homes and shops, for the demand for the both is much, much higher than the supply at present. I would also make preparations to clear the ice along some of the older, frozen roads, that Skaljard's growing numbers might have further room to explore and gather further materials.

Other:
I may be staying for a temporary basis, but it is my hope to return, and that Skaljard may be better prepared for more permanent residents in the future. Gods protect, Lowell Geard.

Last edited by Vezlin on Wed May 16, 2018 7:42 pm, edited 1 time in total.

Why did you come to Skal?
Seeking strength and power, because everyone who comes back from this place is tough as iron.

Do you intend to remain here on a permanent or temporary basis?
I plan to leave with the thaw, because my work here is done.

What are your opinions on this town?
It's unruly to the point that the unruliness causes its own problems.

Can you name three people you trust in Skal?
Lowell Geard, Janix Gald, Perin Fole

What are your opinions on the relationship between adventurers, residents and the local authority?
The adventurers have the potential to be a bigger problem than whatever was here before. I hope he caves and lets this problem be more self-correcting, by letting adventurers join the militia.

What are your opinions on the present relationship between Skal and Arelith?
I think Skal should be independent. Arelith has its own problems, and Skal has enough already! Arelith doesn't need to share!

What is your opinion on gnolls and other such creatures residing in or trading with the town?
Absolutely not. They're monsters, not like demi-humans. Wickedness is in their blood, and while on rare occasions this can be overcome, this should be treated as the exception it is, and with the greatest amount of caution.

What are your opinions on the races already in town?
Hin are the best. I just wanted that entered into official records.

What are your opinions on the local defences?
Completely lacking. The mercenaries do far more for it, with far less authority, than any locals.

What changes would you make if you had the opportunity?
Adventurers in the militia. If we can't have our own set of rules, let us at least enforce the ones the Hovding makes.

Other:
Skal's a beautiful land, with much wisdom. We need to make it safer to travel, and make the town less welcoming for those of ill intent.

Name: TamorisAge:Good question between 20 and 30Race: Human, Zakhara born originally of Southreach.Profession: Druid of Mielikki/ Adventurer with Varko's Vagrants, I get paid for one and the other is a sacred calling.

Other pertinent details: Nearly always seen in the company of a large boar who answers to "Porkules" and usually covered in forest muck. Despite what he says, Porkules is my partner, he is not my boss *a large hole in the paper, roughly the size of a boar's tusk shows this was statement was not agreed by the pig in question*

Why did you come to Skal?

Nothing to do with a certain event in Waterdeep that forced myself and my friends to flee Faerun at great speed, that is for sure! Though Skal wasn't a first choice, the lack of scrutiny and free nature of the place has proven most welcome.

Do you intend to remain here on a permanent or temporary basis?

Unclear. There are matters on Arelith that my friends need to attend to and one of them has managed to somehow sell himself into slavery, so I will need to deal with that at some point.

Porkules has somewhat started a family in town so I imagine we'll settle down here once all the other issues we have are resolved. The Weald is a nice enough wood, though the unending tide of Grigs is a colossal pain in the posterior.

What are your opinions on this town?

Skal is, in my view, a great place for someone who wishes for a free life with minimal restrictions but enough order to sleep easy. The picture of neutrality. If I didn't despise living indoors, I'd very much like to live here.

Can you name three people you trust in Skal?

Oakmaster Rhys (Unquestionably), Count Ajax Varko (sorry, former Count) and Lauric Sannes (that last one is a stretch, Lauric is a little... off).

Porkules wishes it to be known he seconds Oakmaster Rhys and Varko but reckons Donan Bearhart is... "more fun to drink with"

What are your opinions on the relationship between adventurers, residents and the local authority?

I'm not exactly a people person, so my read on this may be a little iffy, but I have no enemies amongst the townsfolk and see them as pleasant company. The Hovding has always treated me with as much respect as I have a right to expect and no guard has ever injured me.

Adventurers, on the other hand, are a tricky blend. By and large, we guard the town from dangers in the wild and stimulate the local economy. I'm not a fan of civilisation (as a rule) but Skal's as good as it can realistically get.

As long as we don't start elevating certain adventurers to positions of authority, that slope leads to only one destination and if that is what you crave then Cordor is the city for you. Skal has enough problems without infecting it with "politics". A wise man once said "Anyone who has an interest in being a politician should be banned for life from ever becoming one" and I'm inclined to agree.
What are your opinions on the present relationship between Skal and Arelith?

It is one of geography. Skal lacks the stifling rules of Cordor, the racial focus of the outlying towns and the slave trade of Sibayad.
Keeping Skal separate from Arelith proper seems like a sensible choice.

What is your opinion on gnolls and other such creatures residing in or trading with the town?

Could not care less. I've been attacked by plenty of 'good' races so I stand by my old principal. I'll tolerate anyone until they strike the first blow. Except Bullywugs.

What are your opinions on the races already in town?

Well, the Oxen are a bit standoffish and the Winter Wolves tend to rise to Porkules bait too often, but they're generally quite good.
*scribbled underneath*
Porkules believes you mean the humanoid ones- no opinion!

What are your opinions on the local defences?

You mean the adventurers? We get paid adequately. Though perhaps a polite understanding that if you are pursued by several undead or have angered a dragon, you either fight them yourself or just die politely rather than making it everyone else's problem. That might ease some of the Militia's burden.

What changes would you make if you had the opportunity?

More trees. Possibly also a clearer mandate that, no matter how powerful you may think you are, enforcing your will on Skaljard is not something you will ever be allowed to achieve. This is not just for those who align with evil.

Other: Porkules wishes to make it known that he desires more food-troughs around the town and a means for him to order mead in the longhouse. I promised him I'd add that.

*the census is signed with a large stylised T and a trotter-print*

Last edited by Ninjimmy on Thu May 17, 2018 5:07 pm, edited 1 time in total.

I came to Skal to try and introduce a rule of law and help educate the local population on their universal legal rights in the hopes that they might seek to adopt a fairer and more just way of life.

Do you intend to remain here on a permanent or temporary basis?

Temporarily, and you may infer what you will about that from my previous answer.

What are your opinions on this town?

See above.

Can you name three people you trust in Skal?

Perin Fole, Petra Bigstep and Lowell Geard

What are your opinions on the relationship between adventurers, residents and the local authority?
Adventurers must be mindful that they are guests of Skal, and should be thankful for the hospitality. The residents are an honest folk, albeit a fearful populace at the mercy of the Furies.

The local authority has been duplicitous, going back on their word by rescinding the only chance Skal had for a brighter tomorrow.

What are your opinions on the present relationship between Skal and Arelith?

Arelith ought to respect Skal as an autonomous land gripped by the Furies and work with it's people, not against them.

What is your opinion on gnolls and other such creatures residing in or trading with the town?

Creatures capable of exercising rational thought and demonstrable morality should be afforded a small chance to co-exist, but within the walls they should not be permitted. They will terrify villagers and create work and undue stress for the local militia.

What are your opinions on the races already in town?

I am a worldly man with a tolerance to match, I believe. There is good and bad within all of Skal's dominant races.

What are your opinions on the local defences?

The local militia is largely adequate and has been bolstered by good-hearted adventurers on many an occasion.

What changes would you make if you had the opportunity?

Skal must demonstrate stability and the rule of law in order to progress as a town. Their culture can be preserved and the will of the people can remain paramount, but no neighbouring village or city will ever seek to establish long-lasting trade or friendship with a town as chaotic as it is cold.

Do you intend to remain here on a permanent or temporary basis?
Undecided.

What are your opinions on this town?
As a new arrival I found those with power, wealth and equipment rather unapproachable if not daunting standing around in large groups. Especially the blue cloaks (who I later learnt were Frostblades) especially seem intimidating, I always see them in town planning something. Also there is also no archive so I find it rather difficult to learn of the town's history.

Can you name three people you trust in Skal?
Alas I am starting to get to know some of the locals of Skal but I guess the only one I trust is my fellow worshiper of Lathandar, Gramham Barrow.

What are your opinions on the relationship between adventurers, residents and the local authority?
I somewhat think adventurers deem themselves as somewhat the authority. I base this off one experience where a companion of mine (who had only arrived a tenday ago) was threatened with a flaming sword by a Hin woman for having his pet boar with him. However moments later a woman with a horse and a man with a spider also walked in the room and yet she did not threaten them with the very same method.

Other than that the local residents pay well for my goods and trinkets I find beyond the walls of Skal.

What are your opinions on the present relationship between Skal and Arelith?
Unknown to myself, I am still very much new to this place.

What is your opinion on gnolls and other such creatures residing in or trading with the town?
I have never encountered such creatures though I have heard of them.

What are your opinions on the races already in town?
All are equal in my eyes, my light does not discriminate.

What are your opinions on the local defenses?
Having taken part in the recent defense of Skal against a dragon I can say that they were not up to par. Perhaps it was due to a lack of resources. I saw many people injured and even more killed. We can defend against the odd attack from undead and bugbears but a dragon? how do you defend against something that could fly and bombard the town from a distance away?

What changes would you make if you had the opportunity?
We need a resident healer, someone to mend the sick and injured. I constantly see adventurers running around town with broken bones, bruises and some are even knocking on death's door. I mean why would you think putting a cloth over the wound to staunch the flow of blood and then selling your loot is a good idea? this puzzles me greatly. I mean by Lathander's great light have you even heard of internal hemorrhaging?

Name: Mach FryarAge: 23 summersRace: HumanProfession: Mage, and alchemistOther pertinent details: Leader of the Frostblades, an adventuring company in Skal

Why did you come to Skal?
I originally came fleeing a captor after managing to smuggle myself from Baldur's Gate.

Do you intend to remain here on a permanent or temporary basis?
I had originally intended a permanent basis. I will soon leave, however, though likely not permanently.

What are your opinions on this town?
Skal is the town I love, most of all. It is my home, and my fondest and most important memories are here. Having been hear nigh on a year now, I have seen and met many, and over time as new faces come and see myself and my friends with suspicion and fear, what I have built will endure, and what we stand for will continue to be our guide.

Can you name three people you trust in Skal?
Sir Lowell Geard, Lady Petra, and Lady Aliel

What are your opinions on the relationship between adventurers, residents and the local authority?
There was a lot of bitterness, a distinct divide despite that cohesion is a necessary factor in a town working and attracting mercenaries to come here and try to find a place in the world. It feels like Skal's leadership itself is very... flat. And short-sighted, in my opinion. Many times the guards are not at their posts, the Hovding lacks flexibility or ambition to actually see Skal flourish, and sometimes I wonder if really the people there fear the Furies or the mayor more.

During the time when we were truly trying to make something to help Skal, the council, we had set high ambitions, and had lofty but noble and good goals. The Mayor increased that divide by rescinding his permission for such, and so if I may speak frankly, he has lost much of my respect.

What are your opinions on the present relationship between Skal and Arelith?
Skal's stoic nature is good. I think the neutrality of the matter is fine, except that when outsiders do arrive, there is little to nothing to stop them from doing as they please.

What is your opinion on gnolls and other such creatures residing in or trading with the town?
I think as long as they're not causing trouble, and there's no evidence that they are plotting to attack or harm Skal or it's people, then it's fine. My primary concern is the safety of the people, but I am compassionate to creatures who can rise above their basest natures. This is a known fact. Where mercy and peace is sought, it should be encouraged to bloom.

What are your opinions on the races already in town?
My opinions of the races are as they always have been; everyone is capable of the greatest good, or the darkest evil. Race has nothing to do with my opinions.

What are your opinions on the local defences?
They are woeful, shameful and a disgrace to Skal's community. The oxen are killed often, the guards can't even figure out how a patrol works, and half the time the western gate is completely defenceless! If the Hovding really believes he is protecting his people, I can assure him he's failing, with facts and evidence daily. It is frustrating, and as such Frostblades have taken to guarding the roads on our own initiative just to do the job the militia can't.

What changes would you make if you had the opportunity?
Skal needs more. It needs to grow, not just to remain stagnant, and it needs a council. Many in the past decided that Skal was scarce even worth the effort after many realised just how tyrannical the current status quo is, where often people try a "Might is right" approach. It is not the right way to handle any situation.

Other:
For those of you who fear the Frostblades, I ask you personally actually break past that fear and hear what we're about for yourselves, rather than judge us for what you think you've seen and heard. Remember, you'll always hear rumors of the worst and most twisted kind, but rumors are rarely truth.
If you seek truth, I will answer every possible question you have, and tell you everything about the Frostblades you'd want or need to know. Are we intimidating? Probably, and we apologise for that. But know that it's mostly our number and our passion to prevent murder in the streets of Skal and outside the walls. Believe me when I say that before the Frostblades, it used to be far worse.